OnePlus users, rejoice! While the company's OxygenOS is already known for its smooth performance and clean interface, there are several hidden gems within its ecosystem that can elevate your smartphone experience. Here's a deep dive into five lesser-known features that will make your OnePlus device even more powerful and user-friendly.
1. Resizable App Icons and Folders
One of the most underrated aspects of OxygenOS is its ability to resize app icons and folders on your home screen. This feature, available in OxygenOS 16, offers a dynamic and customizable approach to your device's layout. Here's how it works:
Folder Resizing: Hold down on a folder and drag the corner grab handle to resize it. You can transform it into a small circle/square, a vertical or horizontal pill, or the standard large square. For the large square, you can further customize the app arrangement inside by long-pressing the folder and selecting the 'Folders' menu.
App Resizing: Similarly, long-press an app icon and drag the grab handle to resize it. You can reshape it into a vertical or horizontal pill or a large square. Interestingly, you can also convert a single app into a folder with shortcuts by pressing and holding the resized app, then tapping the plus sign and selecting the desired shortcut.
This level of customization allows you to create a more personalized and efficient home screen, making your OnePlus device feel truly yours.
2. AI-Powered Settings Search
Finding specific settings on your OnePlus phone can be a tedious task, especially if you don't know the exact name of the setting. This is where OxygenOS's AI-powered search feature comes into play. It's a game-changer for those who want a more intuitive and efficient way to navigate their device's settings.
Using AI Search: Simply open the Settings app, type in a description of the setting you're looking for (e.g., 'vehicle motion sickness' for Motion Cues), and tap 'Find more with AI Search.' The phone will then display relevant settings, with the top three results prioritized. You can explore all results or tap on a setting to navigate directly to it.
Accessibility: AI Search is not limited to the Settings app. You can also use it in other apps like Files, Notes, and Google Calendar, making it a versatile tool for quick and accurate setting adjustments.
3. Screen-Off Gestures
OxygenOS's Screen-Off Gestures feature takes your device's control to a whole new level. It allows you to perform actions without even unlocking your screen, making it incredibly convenient and fast.
Supported Gestures: Double-tap to turn the screen on/off, draw an 'O' to launch the camera, an 'inverted V' to open Calculator, an 'M' to launch Gemini, and a 'W' to open the Recorder. You can also customize these gestures to open specific apps or unlock your phone.
Music Control: Swipe down with two fingers to pause or play music, and use the '<' and '>' symbols to navigate through songs. This feature is accessible in the Settings app under 'Accessibility & convenience' > 'Gestures & motions' > 'Screen-off gestures'.
4. Dark Mode Customization
Dark Mode is a popular choice for eye health, but it can sometimes be too dark for individual preferences. OnePlus addresses this with customizable Dark Mode settings.
Darkness Levels: Choose from Enhanced (pitch black), Medium (lightened elements), or Gentle (soft gray). This feature is found in the Settings app under 'Display & brightness' > 'Dark mode' > 'Dark mode settings' > 'Style'.
Wallpaper Dimming: You can also dim your wallpaper with Dark Mode. For apps without built-in Dark Mode, tap 'Dark mode for third-party apps' and select the desired apps.
5. Speaker Cleaner
Accidents happen, and liquid can sometimes find its way into your device's speakers. OnePlus's Speaker Cleaner tool is a handy feature that helps expel liquid and dust from the speaker holes.
Accessing Speaker Cleaner: Open the Phone Manager app, navigate to 'Tools' > 'More' > 'Accessibility & convenience' > 'Speaker cleaner'. Alternatively, add the tool to your Quick Settings panel for even quicker access.
Usage: Hold your device upright, and the tool will produce a loud sound to vibrate the device, expelling liquid and dust. Some users reported that multiple iterations of the feature were needed for optimal results.
These hidden OnePlus features showcase the company's commitment to providing a seamless and customizable user experience. From customizable home screens to AI-assisted settings, these tools elevate your smartphone's capabilities, making your OnePlus device even more powerful and enjoyable to use.
